Theme Of Morality In The Picture Of Dorian Gray - 789 Words

Everyone in the world lives their lives following a set of personal morals. However, as every individual person decides what their morals are, arises moral ambiguity. Moral ambiguity is defined as a lack of ethical decision making. Everyone defines what is morally correct and incorrect, but there comes a point where most people cannot decipher if a decision is truly correct. In The Picture of Dorian Gray, Dorian Gray’s morals are ambiguous. Dorian Gray’s moral ambiguity stems from his actions only benefiting himself due to the influence of Lord Henry and Basil and parallels the dangers of engrossing yourself in Aesthetics. A widely expressed idea in The Picture of Dorian Gray is that becoming too absorbed in the Aesthetics movement is†¦show more content†¦The unclearness also comes from Dorian going back and and forth between seemingly caring about and not caring about people. After he broke his engagement with Sibyl Vane, Dorian realizes he had been â€Å"sel fish and cruel to her,† and decides to â€Å"go back to Sibyl Vane, make her amends, marry her, try to love her again,† but fails to follow through because she dies (67). If Dorian was able to go through with marrying Sibyl, to the outside observer it would seem to be in favor of Sibyl, but Dorian still benefits from this. So, we see that even though his actions would have benefited someone else, the same actions also would have benefited him, in that he would be marrying someone he loved and there would no longer be conflict between Dorian and Sibyl. Lord Henry and Basil are very influential in that they both play a role in Dorian’s moral ambiguity due to their attempts to get Dorian to agree with their ideas. Lord Henry forced Dorian to think about the human race and the concept of Beauty. Dorian was â€Å"bewildered† by Henry’s ideas, such as the idea that people have a â€Å"desire for a new sensation,† (14, 163). Many of Dorian’s questionable thoughts stemmed from Henry’s influence. Even Dorian outright says Lord Henry brings up â€Å"subtle poisonous theories† and he had to â€Å"resist† the â€Å"temptation† of listening to these theories (67). Basil also greatly influences Dorian by showing Dorian his own beauty. BasilShow MoreRelatedThe Theme of Decadence in the Picture of Dorian Grey by Oscar Wilde1553 Words   |  7 PagesThe theme of decadence in The Picture of Dorian Grey by Oscar Wilde Staring from the definition found in the dictionary, the decadence is a literary movement especially of late 19th-century France and England characterized by refined aestheticism, artifice, and the quest for new sensations. [1] In decadence, important is not necessarily what is seen, but the hermeneutics: what man feels when he sees the creative result of this feeling. It is the current that requires a co-operationRead MoreHuman Connectivity And Response On Art : The Portrait Of Dorian Gray1030 Words   |  5 PagesConnectivity and Response to Art: The Portrait of Dorian Gray Is it the morality or immorality of art that affects our lives, or do we bring that morality or immorality to art? Oscar Wilde’s novel, The Portrait of Dorian Gray, can be seen as a discussion on the effect of art on life and how there exists a unique connection between the morality (or immorality) of art and the importance of human connectivity and response to art. The preface to The Portrait of Dorian Gray exists as a lesson in contradictions;Read MoreOscar Wilde s The Picture Of Dorian Gray1656 Words   |  7 Pagesreligious movements to flourish. The Victorian Era, although being known as the beginning of modern times, still embraced some radical views that today we would associate as prudishness and repression. In 1890, author Oscar Wilde wrote The Picture of Dorian Gray and submitted it to Lippincott’s Monthly Magazine. The magazine’s editor, J.M. Stoddert, immediately declined the novel and determined that it would offend the sensibilities of his readership (Wilde x). It was believed that Oscar Wilde’s bookRead More Oscar Wildes The Picture of Dorian Gray Essay examples1731 Words   |  7 PagesOscar Wildes The Picture of Dorian Gray   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Picture of Dorian Gray is a novel by Oscar Wilde. The genre of this novel can be classified as a comedy of manners or a gothic novel. The Picture of Dorian Gray was first published in 1890 in Lippincott’s Monthly Magazine. Another version with an additional six chapters was published in 1891. One of the major themes in the novel was the Supremacy of Beauty and Youth. A very attractive man has a portrait painted of himself, and after being warnedRead MoreJust Human. What Does â€Å"Being A Human† Even Mean? The Merriam-Webster1906 Words   |  8 PagesKipling’s â€Å"If†, Robert Browning’s â€Å"Porphyria’s Lover†, and Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray portray this philosophical idea of morality and ethics in everyday human beings. The Victorian Era is known for its prosperous economy, industrialized society, and overall national self-confidence. In the British Literature sector, the themes introduced high ethical levels, a focus on middle classes, and the human morality. Nationally, Britain had a high self-confidence level due to its prosperousRead MoreThe Gothic Elements in the Picture of Dorian Gray4109 Words   |  17 PagesAbstract In an attempt to find out the purposes of the gothic elements in The Picture of Dorian Gray, this essay takes a close look at the three most prevailing gothic elements in the novel: the portrait, decadence, and the gothic villain by first exploring their presence and development throughout, and then examining their contributions to the characters, the plot development and the themes. First of all, the unique properties and symbolic meanings of the portrait in this novel are discussed. TheRead More Criticism of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray Essay examples1120 Words   |  5 PagesCriticism of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, written by Oscar Wilde originally appeared in Lippincott’s Monthly Magazine in 1890.   It was then published in 1891, in book form, containing six additional chapters with revisions. The first reviews of Dorian Gray were mostly unfavorable.   It was condemned for its speculative treatment   of immoral or at least uncomfortable subjects. A review in the St. James’s Gazette by Samuel Henry JeyesRead MoreThe Picture Of Dorian Gray Aestheticism Analysis935 Words   |  4 Pagesof aestheticism, a nineteenth-century arts movement that had a significant impact on the writings of Oscar Wilde; in particular, his enrapturing novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, is an insightful narration that expresses many of the central elements of this aesthetic philosophy. Centered on the life of an attractive young man named Dorian Gray, the novel details how through the influence of others, he becomes morally depra ved, and sells his soul in exchange for eternal youth. The main instigatorRead MoreThe Mayor of Casterbridge1724 Words   |  7 Pages The Picture of Dorian Gray is a short novel by Oscar Wilde originally published in 1890. The story begins at the home of Basil Hallward and opens with a conversation between him and Lord Henry Wotton. Lord Henry is fervently admiring Basil’s latest portrait of a young, beautiful man, Dorian Gray. Dorian Gray is the main protagonist in the story. He is described as having a â€Å"simple and beautiful nature†, and he remains this way until he is corrupted by the antagonist of the story, Lord Henry, whoRead MoreThe Picture Of Dorian Gray By Oscar Wilde1523 Words   |  7 PagesReader Response Entry #6: Chapters 10-11 The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde was not received well by critics when it was published in 1890. This was because it contained themes of homosexuality and was considered scandalous. Now, it is just considered a philosophical novel dealing with morals. I think that this book would very much be viewed as indecent in Wilde’s time. For example, when talking about Dorian’s public image, Wilde writes, â€Å"Society--civilized society, at least--is never very

Biography of Joseph Patrick Kennedy Essay - 3933 Words

Biography of Joseph Patrick Kennedy Joseph Patrick Kennedy was a very successful banker and film executive, born in Boston, Massachusetts, on September 6, 1888. Considered by many to be America’s version of the â€Å"royal family,† the Kennedy’s of Boston, Massachusetts have enjoyed triumphs and seen tragedy during the 20th century. As the family patriarch, Joseph Patrick Kennedy instilled values of commitment to public service, determination to succeed, and loyalty to family. His father, Patrick Joseph, was a prosperous saloonkeeper. Patrick also was active in Boston politics, as Irish ward boss, a five time state representative, and state senator. Kennedy’s parents were anxious for their son to succeed, however in the Boston social†¦show more content†¦Kennedy was extremely financially shrewd. He showed an entrepreneurial spirit and an appreciation for money at an early age, and held a number of jobs as an adolescent, including candy vendor, newspaper merchant, and play producer. He also performed jobs for Orthodox Jews, whose faith prohibited them from working on their holy days. During his student days at Harvard, he and a friend bought a bus and began operating sightseeing tours. Kennedy negotiated with another tour operator to share working hours. He was successful at this, earning $5,000 over the course of several summers. In 1914, two years after his graduation, Kennedy accepted a job as president of Columbia Trust Company Bank. At 25 years of age, he was the youngest bank president in the United States. During that same year, he married Rose Fitzgerald, daughter of Boston’s mayor. Kennedy and Rose bought a small home in Brookline, Massachusetts, and started their family. In all, they had nine children: Joseph Jr., John (Jack), Rosemary, Kathleen, Eunice, Patricia, Robert (Bobby), Jean, and Edward (Ted). Several of his children went on to develop distinguished political careers, including two U.S. senators and one U.S. president. Kennedy supported his large family through numerous successful business ventures. He joined an investment banking firm, bought a chain of New England movie theaters, gained control of a film production company, bought and sold many propertiesShow MoreRelatedJohn F. Kennedy Hero Essay1547 Words   |  7 PagesJohn Fitzgerald Kennedy: A Deserving Hero â€Å"Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality† (Bennis). During his life, John F. Kennedy took his innovative and thoughtful ideas and brought them to life. Born on May 29th, 1917 in Brookline, Massachusetts, the Kennedys were a wealthy Irish-American family that was very involved with the politics of Massachusetts. Raised with a silver spoon in his mouth, Kennedy was the son of Joseph P. Kennedy, an American ambassador to Britain duringRead MoreEssay about The American Dream: John F. Kenedy2184 Words   |  9 PagesThe American Dream John F. 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Although their families had not come to the United States with much money, both of John Kennedys grandfathers became political leaders in Boston. One of them, John Fitzgerald, was elected mayor in 1905. John Kennedys father, Joseph PatrickRead MoreRhetorical Analysis-Jfks Address to the Greater Houston Ministerial Association2670 Words   |  11 PagesMinisterial Association. I will be using both external and internal criticism. With the external criticism I will be examining the time, the occasion, how the audience reacted, John F Kennedys biographica l factors and the effects of the speech. John F Kennedy came from a strong political family, was well educated, defended his country in WW II and received rewards for his courage and bravery, and along with his political career that lead him to the nomination for presidency in 1960. With in the internalRead More Comparing Kate Chopin’s The Storm and T. Coraghessan Boyle’s Greasy Lake1355 Words   |  6 Pagesan important literary masterpiece. 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Theodore Roosevelt had become president at 42 when President William McKinley was assassinated, but he was not elected at that age. On Nov. 22, 1963, Kennedy was shot to death in Dallas, Tex., the fourth United States president to die by an assassins bullet. Kennedy was the nations first Roman Catholic president. He was inaugurated in January 1961, succeeding

Effectiveness of E-Learning in Education Free-Samples for Students

Question: Write a Literature Review on Effectiveness of E-learning in Education. Answer: Literature Review E-learning is a modern educational trend which has caught the fancy of the general population. E-learning is mainly facilitated with the help of Information Technology tools and this has played a vital role in creating a paradigm shift in the way education is imparted to the learners. The e-learning practices have been incorporated by some of the most prestigious universities around the globe and this has helped in shifting the traditional classroom education to the electronic environment. The advancements in the fields of computer technology has revolutionised the world of personal computing and this is one of the major factors which is responsible for the wide scale popularity of the E-learning among the global student community (Rao, 2011). (Masadeh et al., 2015) has defined e-learning to be the education facilitated with the help of a digital device like PDA, tablets or computers which is intended to support the learning process of the students. There is a lot of research going on in order to evaluate the effectiveness of teaching through electronic medium. According to (Sife et al., 2007), the main advantage of e-learning is that it does not require the learner and educator to be present within the same physical environment or a face-to-face situation thereby providing a lot of convenience to the learners. The learners are able to learn what is being taught in the classroom sitting in the comfort of their homes and according to the time which they find suitable. (Tsang, 2007) has described that there are various terminologies which are being utilised to describe the online learning process and these are distance learning, e-learning, virtual learning and internet learning. Irrespective of the terms which are being uti lised to describe the e-learning process, their characteristics remain the same. The learner is learning from a distance by utilising technology (internet and computer) to access the learning materials. The learners are able to obtain the necessary support which enables them to learn in an effective manner. The process of interaction between the learners and their tutors takes place with the help of technology. The traditional face-to-face teaching process is undergoing a radical change wherein the learning process is not necessarily being limited to the conventional classrooms (Song, 2010). The contribution of traditional learning towards the present education system cannot be ignored at any cost and this has played a vital role in enhancing the learning process of the learners. In the traditional classroom setting, the learners are able to clarify their doubts instantly with face-to-face interaction with their tutors. According to (Al-Hassan, 2010), the manner in which the teachers teach their students invariably creates a lasting impact on their mind. The advantages of traditional classrooms arise from the fact that they help in the social interaction process among the learners and also between the learners and their teachers. The teachers are able to provide numerous opportunities to the learners to clarify their doubts which might arise in the course of their learning process and this enables the students to learn what is being taught in the class in an effective manner (Kattoua et al., 2016). (Douglas Der Vyver, 2004) have stated that the e-learning provides many advantages over the traditional classroom learning. The e-learning provides an innovative medium through which the teachers and lecturers are able to impart knowledge to a wide environment. This plays a very important role in increasing the learning efficiency of the students and it has helped in facilitating greater opportunities for a diverse segment of learners who have access to computers and internet. The e-learning has played a significant role in challenging the traditional relationship which exists between the learners and their educators where the educators are mainly enjoying a dominant position over their students who in turn become passive receivers of knowledge and information from their teachers (Liao Lu, 2008). The online learning environment plays a vital role in empowering the students and this enables them to become active knowledge seekers. The students are able to participate in an interacti ve learning environment by capitalising on the available modern technologies like video conferencing, role-playing, personalised coaching, discussion board, online references and chat rooms (Tarhini, 2013). (Liu, 2013) has stated that a Learning Management System (LMS) is considered to be an effective embodiment of the e-learning process where a software system is utilised for the effective delivery and management of the tutor-led training content to the students through the online medium. The LMS is playing an instrumental role in facilitating faster access to learning content which can be accessed by anyone from anywhere and at any point of time. The Learning Content Management System (LCMS) and Content Management System (CMS) are quite similar to the LMS. The LCMS can be considered to be a computer application which employs a multi-user environment wherein different subject matter experts, software technology developers, teachers can collaborate and share their expertise and knowledge for ensuring an effective and enriching learning experience for the learners (Song, 2010). They create and distribute the learning content which helps the students to succeed in their academics. The CMS on the other hand can be considered to be an online database of the course materials which could be accessed by the students. In the year 1960, the Chant Royal Commission on Education in British Columbia found out that the student-teacher ratio in the public school classrooms were not ideal for an effective learning process. The student-teacher ratio was extremely high and this led to the viewpoint among many educationists that the students-teacher ratio needs to be brought down in order to provide an effective learning environment to the students. A survey held in 2005 amongst the administrators and teachers in Ontario College found out that nine out of ten teachers and administrators believed that reducing the size of the classroom would go a long way in having the biggest impact on the individual performance of the students. The e-learning environment plays a very important role in addressing this aspect. It provides an individualised learning environment to the students which enable them to learn according to their capabilities without any peer pressure (Holmstrm Pitknen, 2012). (Tarhini et al., 2013) has stated that the web based e-learning does not necessarily require extensive computer knowledge on the part of the learners. It only requires the students to have formal knowledge regarding the computer software in order to mitigate the acceptance barriers. The e-learning process can be categorised into the following categories: Self-paced independent study In this learning process, the learners create their own time schedule and study according to their own pace which they find comfortable. They can review their course and study materials as long as they desire. If the students face any problems during their learning process, then they can participate in online quizzes to get their doubts clarified. This type of learning requires the highest levels of self motivation as there is no one to help the students in their pursuit of knowledge (Tsang et al., 2007). Asynchronous Interactive In this learning process, the students participate in the learning process along with their tutors and other students though not simultaneously. They attend the online classes by accessing the online tutorial until their course gets completed. In this learning process, the students are able to obtain the support and guidance from their teachers and lecturers. The classmates also have adequate interaction with each other and they can participate in group discussions to get their doubts cleared. This type of learning process plays a vital role in enhancing the critical thinking skills among the students and it is not as monotonous as the self-paced independent study (Walker Johnson, 2008). Students are able to obtain an in-depth analysis of what is being taught to them and this helps in shifting the focus of education from being teacher-centered to being learners-centered. This type of learning helps to ensure a more democratic and egalitarian education syste m which makes thje leraning process more holistic for the learners. Sychronous learning In this learning process, the students have the liberty to attend live lectures or webinars (a seminar conducted over the internet) on their computers and they can clarify their doubts by asking questions though real-time live chat or email. This type of learning is the most interactive among the three online learning processes and the students are able to get the same experience which they obtain in the traditional classrooms. This learning process is extremely costly and thus there are only limited courses offering in this format (Tarkelson et al., 2011). According to (Oyelaran-Oyeyinka and Lal, 2005), the success of e-learning largely depends on the ability to ensure an effective sharing of resources and information through the internet or other communication systems which are collectively termed under the Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Thus, it is extremely essential to ensure that continuous research and development takes place in the field of ICTs which would help in the development and creation of better technologies, thereby making the process of e-learning an effortless experience for the students in the near future (Al-Hassan, 2010). Reference Liu, J. (2013). E-learning in English classroom: Investigating factors impacting on ESL (English as Second Language) college students' acceptance and use of the Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (Moodle). Kattoua, T., Al-Lozi, M., Alrowwad, A. A. (2016). A Review of Literature on E-Learning Systems in Higher Education.International Journal of Business Management Economic Research,7(5). Sife, A., Lwoga, E., Sanga, C. (2007). New technologies for teaching and learning: Challenges for higher learning institutions in developing countries.International journal of education and development using ICT,3(2). Holmstrm, T., Pitknen, J. (2012). E-learning in higher education: A qualitative field study examining Bolivian teachers' beliefs e-learning in higher education. Tarkelson, E., Sinclair, J., Yook, S., Egidio, R. (2011). An Analysis of e-Learning Impacts Best Practices in Developing Countries With Reference to Secondary School Education in Tanzania. Song, S. M. (2010). E-learning: Investigating students' acceptance of online learning in hospitality programs. Rao, S. R. (2011).Global e-Learning: A phenomenological study. Colorado State University. Al-Hassan, A. (2010). A comparison of e-learning and Traditional classroom Teaching: Petra University. In IATEFL (International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language) Conference. Walker, G., Johnson, N. (2008). Faculty intentions to use components for webenhanced instruction. International Journal on ELearning, 7(1), 133-152. Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, B., Lal, K. (2005). Internet diffusion in sub-Saharan Africa: A cross-country analysis.Telecommunications policy,29(7), 507-527. Tsang, P. (2007).Enhancing learning through technology. World Scientific. Tarhini, A., Hone, K., Liu, X. (2013a). Extending the TAM to Empirically Investigate the Students Behavioural Intention to Use E-Learning in Developing Countries. Science and Information Conference (IEEE), United Kingdom, 07-09 Oct 2013. Douglas, D. E., Van Der Vyver, G. (2004). Effectiveness of e-learning course materials for learning database management systems: An experimental investigation.Journal of Computer Information Systems,44(4), 41-48. Tarhini, A. (2013). The effects of individual-level culture and demographic characteristics on e-learning acceptance in Lebanon and England: A structural equation modeling approach. (unpublished doctoral dissertation), Brunel University London, Middlesex, UK. Masadeh, R., Gharaibeh, A., Obeidat, B. (2015). Knowledge Sharing Capability: A Literature Review. In Fourth Scientific Research Conference on New Trends in Business, Management and Social Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey, 19-20 September 2015 (pp. 1-16). Wang, J., Doll, W.J., Deng, X., Park, K., Yang, M.G. (2013). The impact of faculty perceived reconfigurability of learning management systems on effective teaching practices. Computers Education, 61, 146-157

Newcastle Earthquake Essay Example

Newcastle Earthquake Paper PART I INTRODUCTION AIM The aim of this report is to describe the Newcastle earthquake and identify its social, physical and economic effects on the community. The event in detail, major effects, how the event was caused, the effects on the communities property, people, infrastructure and economy, will all be addressed in this report. Also the long term planning implications, preventative measures, preparedness, response implications, and well as recovery implications will covered and described. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this report on the Newcastle Earthquake are as follows: 1. To define the terms emergency, and show what makes this event an emergency, 2. To identify in detail the nature of the event, in terms of how and why this event occurred, 3. To identify and discus who and what were affected by this event, 4. To identify the long term implications of this emergency, including details of preventative and preparedness implications, as well as response and recovery implications. PART II WHAT WAS THE EVENT? THE EVENT The event was Australia’s most damaging earthquake which hit Newcastle city. WHERE AND WHEN THE EVENT OCCURRED AND IT’S DURATION The earthquake struck Newcastle city at 10. 28am on the 28th December 1989. The epicentre of the earthquake was 15kms west south west of Newcastle’s CBD, and registered at 5. 6 on the Richter scale. The initial earthquake only lasted 5 to 6 seconds, but two after shocks followed. (Geoscience Australia 2004) The first aftershock was around ten minutes later but was not felt by many Novocastrians. We will write a custom essay sample on Newcastle Earthquake specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Newcastle Earthquake specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Newcastle Earthquake specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The second was felt the day after at 7:08am the 29th December, measuring 2. 1 on the Richter scale (Newcastle Library n. d). This after shock was strongly felt, especially in the suburb of Hamilton. The city is located on the east coast of New South Wales Australia, with a population of around 300 000 people (Geoscience Australia 2004). It was settled early in the 19th century, initially for the mining and exportation of coal. Most of Newcastle’s business is based around this coal extraction. The CBD is located between the beach on the east and the busy port on the north. Many of the original buildings are still operating in the CBD (Geoscience Australia 2004). This combination contributed to the damaged caused. MAJOR EFFECTS The earthquake was not a large compared to earthquakes that other countries have experienced, but extensive damage and fatalities were caused. There was a total of 13 deaths caused by the earthquake and another 162 people where hospitalised. Over 50 000 buildings where damaged, both homes and commercial properties (Newcastle Library n. ). In a wider perspective, the shaking effects were felt from Albury, Cooma and Bermagui in the south, Temora and Narromine in the west, to Coonabarabran, Armidale and Coffs Harbour, which are 550 kilometres north of Newcastle. Damage was recorded from Liverpool 138 kilometres south, Scone 145 kilometres west, and Gladstone 320 kilometres north (Australian Government 2003). The further effects that were felt by this ea rthquake will be explained in detail further down in the report. WHY WAS THIS EVENT AN EMERGENCY An emergency from an emergency services perspective A serious disruption to community life which threatens or causes death or injury in that community and/or damage to property which is beyond the day-today capacity of the prescribed statutory authorities and which requires special mobilisation and organisation of resources other than those normally available to those authorities. (csu) Emergency definition from the New South Wales Disaster Plan An emergency due to the actual or imminent occurrence (such as fire, flood, storm, earthquake, explosion, accident, epidemic or warlike action) which: (a)endangers, or threatens to endanger, the safety or health of persons or animals in the Sate; or (b)destroys or damages, or threatens to destroy or damage, any property in the State, being an emergency which requires a significant and co-ordinated response. (New South Wales Government 2001) To determine why the Newcastle earthquake was classified as an emergency, the definition of emergency must be addressed. The two above definitions of the word emergency are different but do come to the same conclusion. It can be identified that the Newcastle earthquake did indeed endanger, or threaten to endanger, the safety of persons in the community. Also, the event did destroy or damage property in the affected area. The event also required the special mobilisation of organisation of authorities. From this it can been seen that the Newcastle earthquake can be classified as an emergency. From here, the event can be classified into specific type of emergency. This event, an earthquake, is classified as a natural disaster. A natural disaster is one that occurs naturally in the environment with out any interference from man. These can include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, cyclones, floods, landslides, some bushfires, and droughts (Carter 1991). Most of these disasters cannot be avoided but some can be predicted or detected, providing significant warning time to prepare affected areas. Natural diasters are part of the earth’s environment, and need to be accepted and expected in our societies. PART III HOW AND WHY DID IT HAPPEN? HOW AN EARTHQUAKE IS CAUSED The earth’s surface is made up of many separate pieces called tectonic plates. These tectonic plates are in constant movement. This movement and pressure of this movement, build up tension which needs to be released. This tension is released in the form of an earthquake. Australia is situated on the Indian-Australian plate; this plate is moving north and colliding with the Eurasian, Philippine and Pacific plates. This movement and pressure is what causes Australia’s earthquakes. Tectonic plates can interact in three different ways. Where plates move apart, they are named Divergent plate boundaries. This movement allows magma to come to the surface, cool and fill the space formed by the movement. The second type of plate movement is where plates are forced directly towards one and other, resulting in one plate being pushed under neath the other. This is called a convergent plate boundary. Transform boundaries, is where two plates slide along each other in opposite directions. Where these boundaries meet, fault lines are formed. It is at these fault lines where earthquakes are most likely to occur. Earthquake’s need a particular science to detect and measure there presence. Equipment called a seismograph is what is used to measure the size of an earthquake. A seismograph records the vibrations that are caused by an earthquake and produces a recording called a seismogram. Earthquake sizes are compared and measured by the Richter scale. This scale is constructed by measuring the maximum height of the seismic waves caused by the earthquake. This measurement is taken at a distance of 100 kilometres away from the epicentre of the earthquake. The epicentre of an earthquake is also pinpointed by the use of three or more seismographs in different locations. This equipment is essential in researching and monitoring earthquake activity. This monitoring may help in the eventual prediction and warnings or earthquakes (Geoscience 2004). THE CAUSE OF THIS PARTICULAR EVENT The Newcastle earthquake was caused in by the movement of the earth’s tectonic plates. The fault line responsible for the Newcastle earthquake is around 40 kilometres long, starting off the coast of Newcastle and travelling under Lake Macquarie. This fault line is an intra plate fault line, that is, a fault line in a tectonic plate, rather then where separate tectonic plates meet. (Lawson 2000) Another unique property of the Newcastle earthquake is the material underlying the surface the Newcastle CBD is built upon. This material, known as alluvium is sediment deposited by flowing water. The alluvium amplified the ground motion of the earthquake, almost like a city sitting on top of jelly (Geoscience Australia 2004). Ground surface velocities were measured, where the city was built on basement rock the surface velocity was 50 millimetres per second. Where the city has this underlying layer of alluvium the ground surface velocities were measured at 200 millimetres per second. This is the reason that so much damaged was caused by this size of earthquake. Generally an earthquake with a magnitude ranging from 5. 5 – 6. 1 only causes ‘slight building damage with plaster cracking, and bricks falling’ (Geoscience Australia 2004). As the Newcastle earthquake was measured at only 5. 6 on the Richter scale, the amount of damage caused was unforseen and unexpected. The damaged caused would usually be associated with an earthquake of a magnitude of 7. 0 to 7. . The difference of the underlying earth, must be taken into account when assessing the risk of damage in other cities, and brought to attention when planning for the effects of an earthquake (Geoscience Australia 2004). THE EFFECTS ON NEWCASTLE’S PEOPLE The effects that the earthquake had on Newcastle’s citizens are very broad. It starts with the most obvious physical effects, but includes the psychological effects, economic effects, and lifestyle effects. Over all 300 000 people were directly affected by this earthquake, and approximately 1 000 persons were made homeless (Newcastle Library n. ) The first and most obvious effect of the Newcastle earthquake would have to be the physical injuries sustained. A total of 13 deaths occurred, 12 were because of structural collapse and the other was from earthquake induced shock. Another 162 people were hospitalized for injuries (Newcastle Library n. d). These figures could have been much higher if the earthquake had happen during school hours or at a time when a major event was planned. The psychological effects of such a major event usually begin immediately (with in 24 – 48 hours) this includes general distress. Numbness and shock occur usually as a defence mechanism, this distress and shock impairs normal functioning. The long term psychological effects are more serious, which sometimes do not present until six months later. These can include a general distress and anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, phobias, substance abuse, sleep disturbance, hostility, somatization, disruption of family relationships, decreased capacity to work, increased presentation to health care services, increased use of medication, and a general decrease in physical health. The earthquake counselling service set up in Hamilton, a suburb of Newcastle, in February till the end of April diagnosed 46 people with server depression and 37 people with post traumatic stress disorder. Details of these effects are as follows: Depression, the symptoms can include loss of sexual interest, low energy levels, suicidal thoughts, crying easily, feelings of being trapped or caught, loneliness, excessive worrying, loss of interest in life, and a feeling of hopelessness. Anxiety can include feelings of nervousness, trembling, feeling scared for no apparent reason, and feeling tense. Signs of hostility include feeling easily annoyed, temper, having urges to hurt or injure others, and frequent arguments. Somatization symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, pains in the heart or chest, pain in the lower back, nausea, shortness of breath, hot or cold spells, general feeling of weakness, and a heavy feeling in your arms and legs. Phobias can include feeling afraid of open spaces, afraid of being alone, avoiding certain places because of memories. There are four major stressors which produce psychological distress in adults, resulting in the conditions previously outlined. 1. Death encounter – A threat to someone’s life or witnessing gruesome or massive death of others. 2. Loss – Loss of loved ones, home, property, community, familiar environment, or social network. 3. Dislocation – From home, community, familiar environment. 4. Responsibility – perceived or actual responsibility in terms of the disaster, especially when involving the deaths of others. There is a different outcome for children after a disaster, there is no normal reaction varies from child to child. These can include: 1. Fear and anxiety – When the child becomes frightened of things that before the event never bothered them. Examples may include frightened of being alone, going to bed, or things that remind them of the event such as thunder. 2. Regression – The child regresses to a younger stage of development. Examples clinging to parents, thumb sucking, temper tantrums, baby talk, loss of toilet training, and wanting things that have been previously discarded, like bottles or toys. 3. Sadness and withdrawal – The child becomes sad and withdrawn, losing interest in normal activities, loss of appetite, and a general lack of enjoyment of life. 4. Acting out – excessive naughty behaviour for attention. 5. Over reaction to minor stress – Reacting to things that would usually not cause them stress. The general effect on the community was one of a heighten sense of vulnerability, mortality, and sense of community, but with the city damaged there was no focus for the community (Bland 1996) THE EFFECTS ON NEWCASTLE’S PROPERTY There was devastating effects on Newcastle’s structures and buildings, in total around 35 000 homes, 3000 commercial buildings, and 42 schools suffered serious damage. Minor damage was also experienced as far away as Scone, Gladstone and Sydney. These collapsing buildings caused extensive damage in its self, destroying significant property such as cars, roads and infrastructure, and even causing the most of the fatalities. The fatal collapses include the collapse of the Newcastle Workers club, and the Kent Hotel, both very popular businesses in Newcastle. (Australian Government 2003) The most unstable buildings during an earthquake are un-reinforced masonry buildings. Unfortunately these buildings are very common in the older parts of Newcastle. This type of building was constructed up until the 1960s, and includes a wide range of constructions, including houses, terraced houses, shops, schools, churches, and hospitals. The reason of this type of building performing so poorly in an event of an earthquake is due to a lack of construction ties between the double brick walls. This leaves the construction inflexible, brittle, with weak spots and when added with age and corrosion makes them inadequate to withstand horizontal shaking (Geoscience Australia 2004). Another form of construction that is used widely in Newcastle is timber frame buildings. This type of building was popular from the 1960s onwards. This type of construction and perform better then the un-reinforced structures in an earthquake, although this does have weak spots especially were the masonry foundations are used. This can lead to substantial damage to these areas (Geoscience Australia 2004). A more modern form of construction used in the Newcastle area is reinforced and pre-stressed concrete buildings. This type of construction form a significant percentage of large buildings, and used for various purposes such as commercial, car parking, industrial, residential, educational, and government purposes. These buildings will perform well in an earthquake as long as construction has been performed to ensure continuity and irregularities are avoided (Geoscience Australia 2004). The last form of construction that will be addressed is steel framed buildings. This type of construction is again used for large buildings, mostly in areas of industrial and recreational. If construction is not undertaken carefully, connections between steel members can be brittle and cause problems in the event of an earthquake. Geoscience Australian 2004) As can been seen by figure 1. 0 shown below, timber frame structures are the most popular through the Newcastle city, with a large concentration of un-reinforced masonry structures in the older section of the CBD. From this map it can been seen where the most of the damage from different structural type would have occurred. In figure 1. 1 it is shown that the two most unstable structural types, timber frames and un-reinforced masonry, suffered the greatest a mount of loss and structural damaged. These two figures can be used together to show where the greatest amount of loss had occurred. Most of these modern structures did not experience major damage during the earthquake. Except in the case of the Newcastle workers club, where nine of the thirteen fatalities occurred. In this situation there was a combination of two sections built in different styles, an older un-reinforced masonry section, and a newer concrete frame section. The problems arose in the newer section, which was four stories in height with underground parking directly beneath it. The earthquake caused a collapse from the top storey, trapping all people with in the lower stories and in the underground car park (Newcastle Council 2001). Another significant structural collapse was The Kent Hotel, situation on Newcastle Beaumont St. This un-reinforced masonry buildings collapse was responsible for 3 fatalities. This mix of old vulnerable buildings on poor foundations, inadequate maintenance and brittle materials was the combination that led to the extent of damage experienced in the Newcastle earthquake. Geoscience Australia 2004). Figure 1. 0 Placement of structural types in Newcastle according to frame type. (Geoscience Australia 2004) Figure 1. 1: Annualised loss for a selection of building types in the Newcastle region. The annualised loss for a specific building type is described as a percentage of the total value of that building type. (Dhu 2002) THE EFFECTS ON NEWCASTLE’S ESSENTIAL SERVICES Essential services play a very important role in emergency response and the recovery after such an event as an earthquake. With out these essential services the emergency response teams are greatly impaired, especially when the only transport available is by road. The structural effects from the Newcastle earthquake were quite extensive, yet essential services such as gas and water were not affected. Electrical power is very vulnerable to earthquake, the height and structure of power poles that carry the electrical power lines as well as the brittle ceramic insulators found in substations are the weak points of electrical systems during an earthquake. The electrical power infrastructure was damaged during the Newcastle earthquake (Geoscience Australia 2004). Telephone services were also damaged and road transport was seriously impaired from collapsed buildings and debris. This occlusion of roads would have affected the emergency response the greatest, as if directly blocked the emergency services access to the sick, injured, trapped, and other emergencies such as fires (Geoscience Australia 2004). ENVIROMENTAL EFFECTS OF THE NEWCASTLE EARTHQUAKE Earthquakes are considered a natural disaster, and occur in response to the natural movement of the earth’s tectonic plates. Unless earthquake occur in a populated area there is little to none lasting environmental effects. In the case of the Newcastle earthquake structural collapse caused most of the environmental impact in the way of debris. This debris was effectively eliminated through the recovery and rebuilding procedures put in place after the earthquake. So from this disaster there were no long term effects on the surrounding environment (Geoscience Australia 2004). SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY EFFECTS OF THE NEWCASTLE EARTHQUAKE There are many lasting effects on the community of Newcastle city. These include long term effects such as damage to social and cultural structures, loss of life/life style, and economic effects. Short term effects include fear, distress, and confusion. Damage to social and cultural structures can have a large affect on a community and these structures often act as a focal point of the community, structures such as churches, museums, libraries, recreational venues, schools, and conservatoriums. Damage or collapse to this type of structures can have a depressive effect on a community, and cause a community to lose its sense of focus and identity (Geoscience Australia 2004). Short term effects include emotional distress and confusion immediately after the event. This effect also rendered around 1 000 people homeless, leaving them vulnerable and displaced (Newcastle Library n. d). From a different perspective a emergency such as this can bring out a sense of community in a society, with people offering help to those in need. THE EFFECTS ON NEWCASTLE’S INFASTRUCTURE Every community relies on infrastructure to function. Infrastructure includes road networks, rail networks, primary and secondary schools, pre-school centres, TAFE campuses, University campuses, churches, government services, and recreational centres. The predominant section of infrastructure to experience the most damage was Newcastle’s schools. A total of 147 schools in the city were damaged, of this three were deemed unsuitable for occupation and were demolished, another 42 experienced serious structural damage. There is a large concentration of primary schools in the area of Newcastle’s CBD and close suburbs. Many of these schools are old historic sites that are still being used today. This old un-reinforced masonry type of construction, and general erosion left these constructions very exposed to damage from an earthquake (Geoscience Australia 2004). Another prominent structure in Newcastle that suffered significant damage was the Newcastle workers club, this falls under the heading of recreational facility. The damage experienced by this building was outlined under the heading THE EFFECTS ON NEWCASTLE’S PROPERTY. This articular building’s collapse and demolition had a substantial detrimental effect on Newcastle’s infrastructure. Many other important building through Newcastle suffered substantial damage, but all were successfully repaired or stabilised. THE EFFECTS ON NEWCASTLES ECONOMY Costs incurred by an earthquake included direct costs from damage as well as indirect costs, such as loss of business. The estimated value of the damage done by the earthquake was estimated at 1. 124 billion dollars, this measured by the total insurance claims pay out in 1996. The total financial cost has now amounted to an estimate of 4 billion dollars. There were a total of 69,564 insurance claims made for earthquake damage, 63,756 of these were households, and 5,808 were commercial buildings (Insurance Disaster Response Organisation 2002). Until the Sydney hailstorm the Newcastle earthquake was the worst event for the Australian insurance industry (Walker 1999). From the figure 1. 2 shown below, we can seen the areas of Newcastle that suffered the greatest economic loss and damage too their property and structures. Even though this event had a detrimental effect on the unprepared insurance industry, events such as these can often have some positive effect on a society’s economy. Extensive rebuilding, use of supplies, equipment, and skills would have a helpful effect on the economy after such a set back (Geoscience Australia 2004). Figure 1. 2: Annualised loss by suburb. The annualised loss in each suburb has been calculated as a percentage of the total value of all the buildings and their contents within the suburb. (Dhu 2002) PART IV LONG TERM PLANNING IMPLICATIONS PREVENTATIVE / MITIGATORY IMPLICATIONS As this event is an unavoidable natural function of the earth, nothing can be done to avoid this type of event. What can be done in this situation is to reduce the amount of effect an earthquake has on a society. Ways that this can be done is through researching past events, collecting data, reviewing current building codes, protecting emergency facilities, and providing adequate insurance against earthquakes. Research of past earthquakes and the effect they had on the communities they affected, should provide societies at risk with a clear idea of what to expect. From this emergency plans can be implemented. Reviewing past earthquakes can give a clear idea on the direct effects on structures and buildings. Just from this one incident it can been seen that certain types on structures need extra attention and reinforcement when it comes to decreasing the risk of damage that can be caused. This can be directly addressed through the use of building codes and earthquake codes. Since the Newcastle earthquake had little effect on the current building codes, the risk of another earthquake with in Australia needs to be address, and codes and preparation put in to place before that risk occurs (Walker 1999). Another method of reducing the impact in the event of an earthquake is to ensure that all emergency services would be able to cope. Emergency services such as Police, Fire and Ambulance stations, as well as hospitals, and other emergency services such as the State Emergency Service, need to be structurally protected and enforced. All stations and structures should be earthquake proofed by suitably qualified structural engineers, and changes made if need be. The emergency services also need to be well equipped for such an emergency in training, strategic planning, and equipment. Since most of these services main access is by road, suitable planning to avoid this needs to be enforced. Households and commercial operations need to ensure they hold adequate insurance policies against earthquake damage. This will not decrease the damage caused by an earthquake, but will help the recovery and rebuilding of the community after the event (Walker 1999). PREPAREDNESS IMPLICATIONS To be suitably prepared for an earthquake incorporates similar principals as what was outlined in the section above. Additional research and emphasis should also be placed on investigating the earthquake risk in specific areas, and education of the public. The combination of these two ideas, as well as the points outlined in the section above, will prepare the community for the event of an earthquake and facilitate a decrease in fatalities and damage. An earthquake hazard in a specific area can be described as the level of ground shaking that has a certain chance of being exceeded in a given amount of time. For example an earthquake hazard can be described in terms of the level of ground shaking that has a 10% chance of being exceeded in 50 years. With this calculated earthquake hazard, a earthquake risk can then be calculated. An earthquake risk is a combination of the earthquake hazard, the elements at risk and the vulnerability of those elements to earthquakes (Dhu 2002). Shown below in figure 1. 3 it be been seen the areas of the greatest risk in the Newcastle area. Figure 1. 4 shows the greatest risk areas across the country, and figure 1. 5 shows the hazard areas across the country. All these calculated risk and hazard areas need to be addressed with earthquake plans put in place to reduce the damage of an earthquake when the event occurs. Figure 1. 3 Earthquake hazard map with a 10% chance of being exceeded in 50 years. Hazard is defined by the response of idealised low- to medium-rise buildings with a natural period of 0. 3 s. (Dhu 2002) Figure 1. 4 Australian earthquake risk areas (Newcastle Library n. d) Figure 1. 5 Australian earthquake hazard areas (Newcastle Library n. d) Another method of preparing a community for the event of an earthquake is educating the public of the correct procedures on the correct steps to carry out before, during, and after the event of an earthquake. Examples of correct procedures to be carried out in these situations supplied by the Newcastle Council (n. d) are as follows: What can you do before an earthquake occurs? †¢Follow earthquake building codes for new and existing buildings. †¢Check your home for and secure earthquake hazards such as bookcases and other tall furniture. †¢Be aware of the location of electricity, gas and water main switches or valves and how to turn them off with the appropriate tools. †¢Keep the following items ready for use at all times -a first aid kit -a multi-purpose dry chemical extinguisher -a portable radio with extra batteries -a torch †¢Learn first aid and encourage family members to do the same †¢Organise occasional home earthquake drills. This will provide your family with knowledge of how to avoid injury and panic during an earthquake. What can you do during an earthquake? Remain calm, think clearly before moving, provide reassurance to others and then work through the consequences of any action you may take. If you are in a house †¢Take cover under a table or other sturdy furniture †¢Kneel, sit or stay close to the floor †¢Be prepared to move with your cover †¢You could kneel, sit or stay close to the floor, an interior wall or corner. Stay away from large windows, bookcases and unsecured objects. If you are in a shop, office or theatre †¢Do not rush for an exit Move away from windows, glass display cases or other obvious hazards †¢If you must leave the building, choose your exit carefully as possible If you are in a high rise building †¢Take cover under a desk or table; do not rush for exits †¢Stay in the building until shaking sops and until directed to evacuate. If you are outside †¢Avoid high buildings, walls, power lines and other objects that could fall †¢Do not run through streets †¢If possible move to an open ear away from all hazards If you are in a vehicle †¢Stop in safest place available, preferably in an open space †¢Avoid bridges, overpasses and overhead power lines What can you do after an earthquake? Check for serious injury to your families and other around you. Do not attempt to move a seriously injured person unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. If you are inside a building †¢Only use the telephone for emergency use †¢Remain in a safe position until shaking stops †¢Check electricity, gas, water services and turn off if necessary †¢Check food storage and first aid supplies †¢Listen to your radio for information and advice If you are outside †¢Check for fires or fire hazards †¢Avoid fallen power lines †¢Wear shoes to protect your feet †¢Do not attempt to drive. Leave roads clear for emergency vehicles †¢Check building for structural damage RESPONSE IMPLICATIONS The emergency services response to an emergency such as an earthquake largely depends on the plans and procedures put into place before the fact. The services that play a part in the response to such an event are the Fire brigade, Health services, Police services, public information services, rural fire services, state emergencies services, transport services, volunteer rescue associations, and welfare services. These services range from immediate response teams such as the Fire, Police, and Health services, o longer term response teams such as welfare services. Without these essential response organisations, any emergency would end in a great more tragedy (New South Wales Government 2001). RECOVERY IMPLICATIONS Recovery from a disaster can be defined as â€Å"the coordinated process of supporting disaster affected communities in the reconstruction of the physical infrastructur e and restoration of emotional, social, economic and physical well being. † (OMara 2004). After an event such as the Newcastle earthquake all of these points need to be addressed and much effort and coordination put into returning the community back to its former state. There are long term recovery plans such as re building, and restoration of emotional and physical wellness. In response to the Newcastle earthquake an Emergency Reception Centre was set up. This centre treated 14, 800 clients, of these 1,500 were in need of temporary or long term accommodation. Centres like this prove vital in the recovery of a community after such an event. CONCLUSION In conclusion, it is known that the Newcastle earthquake caused extensive damage in physical, emotional, and economic ways. It is also known that some of this damage could have been avoided or diminished with correct planning, preparedness and response actions. An event such as this should be used for education and future planning purposes to protect other communities from similar effects. REFERNCE LIST Australian Government 2003, Newcastle Earthquake, Australian Government, viewed 2 March 2006 ;www. ema. gov. au; Australian Government Geoscience Australia 2004, Earthquake Risk in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie: The Elements at Risk in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, updated July 2004, Australian Government, also available in pdf format, viewed 11 March 2006 ; http://www. ga. gov. au/urban/projects/archive/newcastle. jsp; Australian Government Geoscience Australia 2004, Newcastle Earthquake, last updated 22 June, Australian Government, viewed 10 March 2006 ;http://www. ga. gov. au/urban/factsheets/earthquakes_newcastle. jsp; Australian Government Geoscience Australia 2004, What is an earthquake? , updated 22 June 2004, Australian Government, viewed 11 March 2006, ; http://www. ga. gov. au/urban/factsheets/earthquakes. jsp; Bland, S, Erin, S, O’Leary, MA, Farinaro, E, Jossa, F, Trevisan, M 1996, ‘Long-term Psychological Effects of Natural Disasters’, Psychosomatic Medicine, vol. 58, no. 1, pp. 8 – 24, available in pdf format, viewed 14 March 2006, ; http://www. psychosomaticmedicine. org/cgi/reprint/58/1/18; Carter, N 1991, Disaster Management: A Disaster Manager’s Handbook, Asian Development Bank, Philippines Dhu, T Jones, T (eds) 2002, Earthquake Risk in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, electronic version, Minerals and Geohazards Division Geoscience Australia, Canberr a, ; http://www. ga. gov. au/image_cache/GA4187. pdf; Insurance Disaster Response Organisation 2002, Claims Survey, Insurance Disaster Response Organisation, viewed 20 March 2006, ; http://www. idro. com. au/disaster_list/docs/disaster080. df; Lawson, M 2000, Geologists find Newcastle Fault, updated 2000, Queensland University of Technology, viewed 2 March 2006 ;http://www. corpcomm. qut. edu. au/corpcom/servives_function/publications/iqut/iq_206_comp. pdf; New South Wales Government 2001, New South Wales State Disaster Plan, October 2001, New South Wales Government, also available in pdf format, viewed 17 March 2006, ; http://www. emergency. nsw. gov. au/media/84. pdf; Newcastle Council 2001, Newcastle Earthquake, Newcastle regional Library, Newcastle Newcastle Library n. d, Brief facts and figures, Newcastle Council, viewed 10 March 2006 ;http://www. cc. nsw. gov. au/services/culture/library/research/earthq5. cfm; Newcastle Library n. d, Earthquake Risk Maps, Newcastle Council, vi ewed 10 March 2006 O’Mara, T 2004, Recovery Management: The long and only road, electronic version, 17 February 2004, University of New South Wales, 23 March 2006, ;htp://www. tefma. com/infoservices/papers/2004_UNSW_Security_Conference/OMara. pdf; Walker, G 1999, Newcastle Earthquake – What have we learnt, Aon Re Australia Limited, Australia, viewed 20 March 2006, ; http://www. aon. com. au/pdf/reinsurance/Aon_Newcastle_Earthquake. pdf;

Azelaic Acid Essay Example

Azelaic Acid Essay Example Azelaic Acid Paper Azelaic Acid Paper Abstract Azelaic acid is an essential acid that has emerged to answer most skin problems. Through several researches, it has been proven to treat even the most common skin problems. This paper will discuss Azelaic acid and its capabilities in treating skin illnesses. Azelaic Acid Introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In this present era of innovations, new discoveries continue to emerge. Scientists, researchers, and even individuals continue to experiment and try new stuff that will answer their inquisitiveness or needs. In the field of skin care, an acid has been found and considered to be an effective cure for most common skin problems. This acid is known as Azelaic acid. Since its discovery, many beauty product manufacturers are adding it as an ingredient. Azelaic Acid: Definition   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Azelaic acid is a â€Å"saturated dicarboxylic acid that occurs naturally in wide variety of whole grains such as rye, barley, and wheat† (Azelaic Acid Information, 2008, n.p.). It has a yellowish- to white-powder appearance (MSN Encarta, 2008). Small amount of Azelaic acid can also be found in the human body. Generally, an acid is characterized to be sour and corrosive. However, and Azelaic acid is one that is weak and non-corrosive. Thus, it is safe to be applied on the skin. Benefits of Azelaic Acid   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Azelaic Acid has been commonly used as treatment for skin cancer and other disorders of the skin (MSN Encarta, 2008). Researches also show that Azelaic acid is an effective antibacterial (Azelaic Acid Information, 2008). This is so because the acid is helpful is destroying and reducing the growth of bacteria. Commonly, Azelaic Acid has been used as a treatment and prevention for acne, pimples, and blackheads. This is so because Azelaic acid is capable of destroying the bacteria that causes acne, clearing the pores of the skin, and reducing the keratin (Azelaic Acid Information, 2008). Notably, a keratin is a natural substance that also contributes in the development of acne. Azelaic acid has also been proven to be effective in repairing skin discoloration by efficiently destroying the free radicals and reducing inflammation. Free radicals are atoms or molecules that attack the cell membranes’ structure that will create metabolic waste products such as lipofuscins (Klatz Goldman, 2003). An excess of the lipofuscins has been shown to cause skin darkening or â€Å"age- spots,† because they are only visible on certain parts of the skin (Klatz and Goldman, 2003, p. 23). Furthermore, Azelaic acid effectively reduces the pigmentation of the skin. Thus, Azelaic acid is good also for those who are bothered by their dark skin. In addition, Azelaic acid is good for those people suffering from melasma. Melasma is derived from Greek word â€Å"melas† which means black; it is characterized as blotchy, irregularly patterned, brown or sometimes grey- brown hyper-melanosis of the face and occasionally evident on the neck (Katsambas, Stratigos, Lotti, 2003, p. 336). Being an acid and antibacterial, Azelaic acid is operative in moderating noticeable scars and spots caused by acne. Moreover, it is efficient in renewing and healing the skin because of its ability to kill the bacteria that causes the skin problem and ability to normalize the skin growth. Furthermore, Azelaic acid has been used for its efficiency in stimulating growth of hair. Azelaic acid has not yet been approved by the FDA as a treatment for hair loss. However, scholars say that it is effective because Azelaic acid has been found to potentially inhibit 5-Alpha-Reductase in human skin that eventually leads to the decrease of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which causes hair fall (Medline Plus, 2008). Azelaic Products Predominantly, Azelaic acid products are in the form of gel and cream. Cream usually contains only a solution of 20% of Azelaic acid mixed with other inactive ingredient such as glycerin, cetearyl octonoate, cocoglycerids, propylene glycol, and purified water to produce skin product (Niaze, p. 105). Gel, on the other hand is manufactured by adding benzoic acid, ETDA, 15% of Azelaic acid, among others (Niaze, p. 105). An Azelaic acid in the form of cream and gel makes the product mild, tolerable, and safe; it is used in treating rocasea which causes irritation, redness, and pimples (Azelaic Acid Information, 2008). One of the Azelaic Acid cream 20% manufactured, widely distributed, and used is Finevin as a cure for acne vulgaris (Doctor’s Guide. 2008). It is manufactured by Berlex Laboratories, Inc., an affiliation of Schering AG, Germany (Doctor’s Guide. 2008). Harmful Effects of Azelaic Acid Nevertheless, not all skin types react well on Azelaic acid. It also has drawbacks, especially if applied improperly. Some of the side effects include itching, burning, stinging, and tingling (Medline Plus, 2008).   Usually, Azelaic acid for acne has been advised to be used twice a day and only on parts affected by acne. Product makers also require patients experiencing side effects to consult their doctors immediately to avoid further damage. However, despite these side effects, millions of people in almost 70 countries use Azelaic acid for treating their facial problems. Conclusion   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The efficiency of the Azelaic acid has been proven because of its three powerful abilities. First, Azelaic acid is an antibacterial; it has the ability to destroy the bacteria found in the follicles that cause pimples and acne. Second, Azelaic acid is an anticomedonic; it inhibits formation of comodones which are squeezed from blackheads. The last ability is anti-inflammatory, which is essential in the reduction of free radicals. These three general abilities of Azelaic acid are vital in repairing skin problems that trouble both men and women. Nevertheless, these medications should be properly applied in order to avoid further skin complications. Furthermore, one must not use these products without consulting an expert first in order to ensure a satisfactory effect of the product. References Azelaic acid information. (2008). Azelaic Acid. Retrieved August 4, 2008 from azelaicacid-information.com/info/ Doctor’s Guide. (1995). FDA Approves Finevin (Azelaic Acid Cream 20%) For the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Acne. Retrieved August 4, 2008, from pslgroup.com/dg/1F9E26.htm Katsambas, A. D., Stratigos, A. J., Lotti, T. M. (2003). Melasma. In A. D. Katsambas T. M. Lotti (Eds.) European Handbook of Dermatological Treatments, 2nd Ed. (pp. 336–341). Berlin, Germany: Springer. Klatz, Ronald, Goldman Robert. (2003). The New Anti- Aging Revolution: Stopping the Clock for a Younger, Sexier, Happier You!. North Bergen, NJ: Basic Health Publications, Inc. Medline Plus. (2008). Azelaic Acid Topical. Retrieved August 4, 2008, from nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a603020.html MSN Encarta. (2008). Azelaic Acid. Retrieved August 4, 2008, from http://encarta.msn-ppe.com:443/dictionary_701704442/azelaic_acid.html Niazi, S. (2004). Handbook of Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Formulations. London: CRC Press.

Toilet Paper Icebreaker Games

Toilet Paper Icebreaker Games Social and business gatherings can be awkward at first, especially if participants dont know each other. Icebreaker games can help a host solve that problem and motivate guests  to break through their initial social fears, leading to a productive meeting or event. Try this toilet paper game to grease the social wheels. Grab a Roll Youll need little preparation. Just grab a full roll of toilet paper from the bathroom, and then: Take the roll of toilet paper, pull off several squares before handing it to another person and asking him to do the same.Continue this until all guests have grabbed a few pieces.Once everyone in the room has taken some toilet paper, each person counts the number of squares that she has grabbed and then tells everyone that number things about herself.For example, if someone has three squares, he would share three things about himself. Give an Example If you have a particularly shy group, spark the discussion with an example, suggests  Beat by Beat, a website focusing on drama and theater. The website gives the following example: If Isabel took five sheets, then, she might say: I like to dance.My favorite color is purple.I have a dog named Sammy.This summer I went to Hawaii.I’m really afraid of snakes. Beat by Beat says that you will also learn about participants personalities based on who took a greater number of sheets compared to those who tore off only a few. Extending the Game Leadership Geeks, a website focusing on leadership skills and team building, suggests extending this seemingly simple game to foster team-building, work habits, and social skills. After all of the  participants have torn off a few pieces of toilet paper and you have explained the rules of the game, notes the website: You may hear laughter and groaning when some realize they took too many squares.End the session by sharing a humorous moral: â€Å"Sometimes excess can be bad for you!†Ask participants: How many of you took more than what you knew you would need just in case? What does that say about your approach to life in general?What are some interesting things you have learned about your fellow participants? You can dissolve uncomfortable distinctions between those hoarding a large number of pieces and those who only grabbed two or three. Afterward, have everyone throw their sheets into the center, says Beat by Beat. This represents all the new information we now know about each other. Its amazing how much social traction you can gain with a simple bathroom supply. And, regardless of how many sheets participants tore off, youre likely to have plenty of paper left on the roll for your next event.

WHY, ACCORDING TO HAGEL, DOES THE ATTEMPT TO REALISE ABSOLUTE FREEDOM Essay

WHY, ACCORDING TO HAGEL, DOES THE ATTEMPT TO REALISE ABSOLUTE FREEDOM BRING ABOUT ITS OPPOSITE(absolute tyranny) TO what extent do you agree with Hagel - Essay Example One reason for Hegel’s concern with dialectics was because two of the philosophers he respected immensely, Hobbes and Rousseau, had contradictory ideas concerning the nature of freedom. To Hegel, the idea of absolute freedom could only lead to tyranny, and he was in agreement with Hobbes and his work from The Leviathan, which stated that people needed society because otherwise they would more or less destroy each other. This is part of the â€Å"utter indifference toward death that Hegel saw as the hallmark of the terror† (Schmidt 4). Of course, with any ideas that Hegel worked with, the concept of freedom was multifaceted and complex, and it is necessary to discuss the many different aspects of freedom in order to fully comprehend the ways in which absolute freedom would lead to tyranny. This tyranny, witnessed as a result of the French Revolution, was the part of Rousseau’s philosophy that he attempted to contradict: â€Å"Hegel believed that Rousseau’s political philosophy was fundamentally misconceived because it sought to transpose to the state much the same ideal of individual self-sufficiency as was ascribed to uncultured peoples and to an education concerned in accordance with nature† (Wokler 35). Once all of Hegel’s conceptions of freedom have been discussed, we can see how Hegel’s conception of absolute freedom truly would lead to its opposite, tyranny, because, as Hegel says, â€Å"The sole and only work and deed accomplished by universal freedom is therefore deathâ €  (Absolute). The first conception of freedom that needs to be discussed is natural freedom. This is what we find people in their natural state; to be able to choose to determine one’s own self: â€Å"When a man is so self-determined but the only content of his will the only source of his determinations - are his impulses, appetites and desires, he has what Hegel calls an immediate or natural

Art Critique (-) Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Art Critique (-) - Research Paper Example d in pale green and with a colorful African scarf draped around her neck, holds a white cracked ceramic mask in her hands and rests one arm on the table in front of her. On the table are three tarot cards representing lynchings with the Hanged Man card, Civil Rights with the Justice card and perseverance with the Strength card. The strength of the composition rests in the line of sight of the characters which both freeze the eye within the frame and refuse to engage with the viewer personally. Color also contributes to the painting’s effectiveness as the limited color on the tarot cards continuously direct the eye to the center of the image where the colorful dress and scarf of the woman stand in sharp contrast to the white of the man’s T-shirt without blending into the muted tans of the background. These pastel-like shades provide a muted feel to the work which helps to highlight the emotions of the people depicted, both of whom feel it necessary to maintain a hold on the white mask that enables them to move in mainstream society. The symbolism apparent in the piece is clear to those with knowledge or curiosity to examine the cards on the table and to understand the condition of people of color within a majority white society. The chasm in the background communicates a vast hurdle to overcom e before the prediction of justice found in the cards on the table comes to pass. However, the strength depicted in these characters and the cracks in the mask suggest this is not a condition that can last long nor is it one that will break the spirits of these people. By examining a series of artworks created by Valerie Winslow, it becomes clear that the artist has a very strong introspective approach to her work. This is revealed in the very detailed depictions of human anatomy she has created as well as in the brooding attitudes of the characters in her more imaginative paintings. Her inclusion of a number of symbols within her paintings further indicates a strong

Islam Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Islam - Research Paper Example Introduction One thing is for certain, Islam like all religions without exception is beautiful, peace- loving, moral, and its core consists of humanity above all. The phenomenal prosperity of Islamic reformation was the result of its capability to lead the masses out of the wretched predicament generated by the demode civilizations. Islam launched a splendid chapter of social records of mankind. It hauled away the played out old, to establish the vital new. The quest of Prophet Muhammad was to invigorate the country, eager in inquiry of learning and power in the tide of evolution (Roy, 1958) Islam, like all others religions preaches its followers to do good deeds and refrain from bad ones. The purpose of every religion is to promote and spread love, peace, tolerance, and sustainability and Islam is no different. It is essentially a peaceful and tolerant religion and it is a shame that today we have turned a blind eye towards the beautiful and fragrant flower that is Islam and are ent angled in the nonnegotiable and complex web of controversies and misunderstandings surrounding it. Methods Research papers, videos, books, and websites relating to the research were explored and studied to substantiate the findings and providing a base for the discussions. Results Emergence of Islamic Culture Muslim youth are less inclined to the propensities of voluntary ethnic isolation of their elders. The group efficaciously makes friends with Muslims of different races and ethnic inclinations and also effectively develops friendships with people from Jew, Christian, or other religions that they meet socially or professionally. Children of immigrants are likewise step by step entering a broader range of professions and are becoming prominent with each passing day. Western culture has its qualities in its appreciation for the individual, the adaptability of its polite social order, and the limitations it endeavors to place on the haughtiness of political force. It has its shortco ming in its helplessness to yield family values and strict ethics to the longings of business and trade (Moaddel, 2002). The religion of Islam, taking into account the eager accommodation of the single person to the Divine Will is a fitting religion for such a social order. The Divine Will, as enunciated in the Qur'an uncovers the standards by which the welfare of the singular and the neighborhood are orchestrated. Along these lines, Muslims ought to have the capacity to uncover a critical place in Western social order, utilizing the structure for organization building and for singular progression to make utilization of the qualities of Western culture and to help overcome its shortcomings (HRH, 1993). Progressively, that is the thing that western Muslims have achieved successfully. Similarities I chose to discuss the most basic and most controversial aspects; One God The most basic and fundamental testimony of Islam and every other mainstream religion is having faith and believing that there is only one God. It was the most important and central message delivered to the followers, at first by Abraham, Isaac, Ishmael, and Moses (Prophets and Prophecy). Moses testifies; â€Å"Hear, O Israel The Lord our God is one Lord.†

Indian Government Promoting Investment In Agriculture Economics Essay

Indian Government Promoting Investment In Agriculture Economics Essay The main objectives of the Governments price policy for agricultural produce, aims at ensuring remunerative prices to the growers for their produce with a view to encourage higher investment and production. Towards the end, minimum support prices for major agricultural products are announced each year which are fixed after taking into account, the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). The CACP while recommending prices takes into account all-important factors, viz. Cost of Production Changes in Input Prices Input/Output Price Parity Trends in Market Prices Inter-crop Price Parity Demand and Supply Situation Effect on Industrial Cost Structure Effect on General Price Level Effect on Cost of Living International Market Price Situation Parity between Prices Paid and Prices Received by farmers (Terms of Trade). EXIM Policy EXIM Policy is the export import policy of the government that is announced every five years. It is also known as the Foreign Trade Policy. This policy consists of general provisions regarding exports and imports, promotional measures, duty exemption schemes, export promotion schemes, special economic zone programs and other details for different sectors. Every year the government announces a supplement to this policy. The EXIM Policy of 2002-2007 (External website that opens in a new window) emphasized the importance of agricultural exports and announced measures like the setting up of agri export zones, removal of procedural restrictions and marketing cost assistance. Agri Export Zones are considered the most important creation of this policy Agri Export Zones (External website that opens in a new window) Agri Export Zones were formed as a result of this policy. These zones are meant to promote agricultural exports from the country and provide remunerative returns to the farming community regularly. They are to be identified by the State Government, which would evolve a comprehensive package of services to be provided by all State Government agencies, State Agriculture Universities and all institutions and agencies of the Union Government for intensive delivery in these zones. Corporate sector companies with proven credentials would be encouraged to sponsor new agri export zones or take over already notified agri export zones. Services that would be managed and coordinated through this scheme include the provision of pre/post harvest operations, plant protection, processing, packaging, storage and related research and development. APEDA will supplement, within its schemes and provisions, the efforts of State Governments for facilitating exports. Click here for a list of the Agri Export Zones. After, a change of government at the centre, a new EXIM Policy of 2004 2009 was announced. This policy came up with export promotional measures such as Towns of Export Excellence, Target Plus, Free Trade and Warehousing Zones and the Vishesh Krishi Upaj Yojana. Here are details on these schemes: Towns of Export Excellence Here, towns in specific areas that produce goods of Rs.250 crores and above in the handloom, agriculture, handicraft and fisheries sector will be notified as Towns of Exports Excellence on the basis of their potential for growth in exports. They will be granted this recognition to maximize their potential, enable them to move higher in the value chain and tap new markets. Target Plus In this scheme, exporters who have attained a large increase in growth of exports would be allowed duty free credit based on incremental exports substantially higher than the general actual export target fixed. Rewards will be granted according to a tiered approach. For incremental growth of over 20, 25 and 100 per cent, the duty free credits would be 5, 10 and 15 per cent of Free on Board (FOB) value of incremental exports. Vishesh Krishi Gram Udyog Yojana It aims to promote exports of fruits, vegetables, flowers, fruits, and other value-added products. This year it has been expanded to include soybean and coconut oil as well as food preparations such as soups. Plus, the benefit of the scheme has been extended to 100 per cent export-oriented units. Import and Export Since Independence, India has made a lot of progress in agriculture in terms of growth in output, yields and area under crops. It has gone through a Green Revolution (food grains), a White Revolution (milk), a Yellow Revolution (oilseeds) and a Blue Revolution (aquaculture). Today, India is one of the largest producers of milk, fruits, cashew nuts, coconuts and tea in the world. It is also well known for the production of wheat, vegetables, sugar, fish, tobacco and rice. Certain types of agriculture such as horticulture, organic farming, floriculture, genetic engineering, packaging and food processing have the potential to see a surge in revenues through exports. Over the past few years, the government has stressed on the development of horticulture and floriculture by creating vital infrastructure for cold storage, refrigerated transportation, packaging, processing and quality control. If India wishes to optimize the production and export potential of these commodities, then it is essential to improve these facilities, marketing and export networks much further. In recent years, the Central Government has offered different fiscal incentives for bettering storage facilities in rural areas. It also provides financial assistance to the State Governments for acquiring and distributing food grains at subsidized rates, especially to families with annual income below the poverty line. Today, the improved availability of bank credit through priority lending, favourable terms of trade and liberalized domestic and external trade for agricultural commodities have also encouraged private players to invest in agriculture. The major thrust of the policies and programmes of the Government of India relating to livestock and fisheries is in the areas of rapid genetic upgradation of milch animals, improvement in the delivery mechanism of breeding inputs, control of animal diseases, creation of disease free zones, increased availability of nutritious feed, development of dairy activities and backyard poultry, development of processing and marketing facilities and enhancement of production and profitability of livestock. Agricultural Exports (External website that opens in a new window) Agricultural exports have shown an increase (External website that opens in a new window) from around Rs.60 billion in 1990 91 to Rs.398 billion in 2005-06. The Governments special efforts to encourage export of food grains in recent years through grant of World Trade Organization (External website that opens in a new window) or WTO compatible subsidies has lead to India becoming one of the leading exporters of food grains in the international market Agricultural Imports (External website that opens in a new window) The imports of agricultural products (External website that opens in a new window) improved from Rs.12 billion in 1990 91 to Rs.220 billion in 2005- 06. The share of agri-imports to total merchandise imports in 2005-06 was 4.59 percent. Edible oil is the single largest agricultural product imported into the country and accounts for around two-thirds of the total agricultural imports. NEW AGRICULTURE POLICY Agriculture is a way of life, a tradition, which, for centuries, has shaped the thought, the outlook, the culture and the economic life of the people of India. Agriculture, therefore, is and will continue to be central to all strategies for planned socio-economic development of the country. Rapid growth of agriculture is essential not only to achieve self-reliance at national level but also for household food security and to bring about equity in distribution of income and wealth resulting in rapid reduction in poverty levels. Indian agriculture has, since Independence, made rapid strides. In taking the annual foodgrains production from 51 million tonnes in early fifties to 206 million tonnes at the turn of the century, it has contributed significantly in achieving self-sufficiency in food and in avoiding food shortages. Over 200 million Indian farmers and farm workers have been the backbone of Indias agriculture. Despite having achieved national food security the well being of the farming community continues to be a matter of grave concern for planners and policy makers. The establishment of an agrarian economy which ensures food and nutrition to Indias billion people, raw materials for its expanding industrial base and surpluses for exports, and a fair and equitable reward system for the farming community for the services they provide to the society, will be the mainstay of reforms in the agriculture sector. The National Policy on Agriculture seeks to actualise the vast untapped growth potential of Indian agriculture, strengthen rural infrastructure to support faster agricultural development, promote value addition, accelerate the growth of agro business, create employment in rural areas, secure a fair standard of living for the farmers and agricultural workers and their families, discourage migration to urban areas and face the challenges arising out of economic liberalization and globalisation. Over the next two decades, it aims to attain: The salient features of the new agricultural policy are: Over 4 per cent annual growth rate aimed over next two decades.. Greater private sector participation through contract farming. Price protection for farmers. National agricultural insurance scheme to be launched. Dismantling of restrictions on movement of agricultural commodities throughout the country. Rational utilisation of countrys water resources for optimum use of irrigation potential. High priority to development of animal husbandry, poultry, dairy and aquaculture. Capital inflow and assured markets for crop production. Exemption from payment of capital gains tax on compulsory acquisition of agricultural land. Minimise fluctuations in commodity prices. Continuous monitoring of international prices. Plant varieties to be protected through a legislation. Adequate and timely supply of quality inputs to farmers. High priority to rural electrification. Setting up of agro-processing units and creation of off-farm employment in rural areas. Sustainable Agriculture The policy will seek to promote technically sound, economically viable, environmentally non-degrading, and socially acceptable use of countrys natural resources land, water and genetic endowment to promote sustainable development of agriculture. Measures will be taken to contain biotic pressures on land and to control indiscriminate diversion of agricultural lands for non-agricultural purposes. The unutilized wastelands will be put to use for agriculture and afforestation. Particular attention will be given for increasing cropping intensity through multiple-cropping and inter-cropping. Rational utilization and conservation of the countrys abundant water resources will be promoted. Conjunctive use of surface and ground water will receive highest priority. Special attention will be focused on water quality and the problem of receding ground-water levels in certain areas as a result of over-exploitation of underground aquifers. Proper on-farm management of water resources for the optimum use of irrigation potential will be promoted. Erosion and narrowing of the base of Indias plant and animal genetic resources in the last few decades has been affecting the food security of the country. Survey and evaluation of genetic resources and safe conservation of both indigenous and exogenously introduced genetic variability in crop plants, animals and their wild relatives will receive particular attention. The use of bio-technologies will be promoted for evolving plants which consume less water, are drought resistant, pest resistant, contain more nutrition, give higher yields and are environmentally safe. Conservation of bio-resources through their ex situ preservation in Gene Banks, as also in situ conservation in their natural habitats through bio-diversity parks, etc., will receive a high priority to prevent their extinction. Specific measures will also be taken to conserve indigenous breeds facing extinction. There will be a time bound programme to list, catalogue and classify countrys vast agro bio-diversity. Sensitization of the farming community with the environmental concerns will receive high priority. Balanced and conjunctive use of bio-mass, organic and inorganic fertilizers and controlled use of agro chemicals through integrated nutrients and pest management (INM IPM) will be promoted to achieve the sustainable increases in agricultural production. A nation-wide programme for utilization of rural and urban garbage, farm residues and organic waste for organic matter repletion and pollution control will be worked out. Agro-forestry and social forestry are prime requisites for maintenance of ecological balance and augmentation of bio-mass production in agricultural systems. Agro-forestry will receive a major thrust for efficient nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, organic matter addition and for improving drainage. Farmers will be encouraged to take up farm/agro-forestry for higher income generation by evolving technology, extension and credit support packages and removing constraints to development of agro and farm forestry. Involvement of farmers and landless labourers will be sought in the development of pastures/forestry programmes on public wastelands by giving financial incentives and entitlements to the usufructs of trees and pastures. The history and traditional knowledge of agriculture, particularly of tribal communities, relating to organic farming and preservation and processing of food for nutritional and medicinal purposes is one of the oldest in the world. Concerted efforts will be made to pool, distil and evaluate traditional practices, knowledge and wisdom and to harness them for sustainable agricultural growth. Food and Nutritional Security Special efforts will be made to raise the productivity and production of crops to meet the increasing demand for food generated by unabated demographic pressures and raw materials for expanding agro-based industries. A regionally differentiated strategy will be pursued, taking into account the agronomic, climatic and environmental conditions to realize the full growth potential of every region. Special attention will be given to development of new crop varieties, particularly of food crops, with higher nutritional value through adoption of bio-technology particularly genetic modification, while addressing bio-safety concerns. A major thrust will be given to development of rainfed and irrigated horticulture, floriculture, roots and tubers, plantation crops, aromatic and medicinal plants, bee-keeping and sericulture, for augmenting food supply, exports and generating employment in rural areas. Availability of hybrid seeds and disease-free planting materials of improved varieties, supported by a network of regional nurseries, tissue culture laboratories, seed farms will be promoted to support systematic development of horticulture having emphasis on increased production, post-harvest management, precision farming, bio-control of pests and quality regulation mechanism and exports. Animal husbandry and fisheries also generate wealth and employment in agriculture sector. Development of animal husbandry, poultry, dairying and aqua-culture will receive a high priority in the efforts for diversifying agriculture, increasing animal protein availability in the food basket and for generating exportable surpluses. A national livestock breeding strategy will be evolved to meet the requirements of milk, meat, egg and livestock products and to enhance the role of draught animals as a source of energy for farming operations and transport. Major thrust will be on genetic upgradation of indigenous/native cattle and buffaloes using proven semen and high quality pedigreed bulls and by expanding artificial insemination network to provide services at the farmers doorstep. Generation and dissemination of appropriate technologies in the field of animal production as also health care to enhance production and productivity levels will be given greater attention. Cultivation of fodder crops and fodder trees will be encouraged to meet the feed and fodder requirements and to improve animal nutrition and welfare. Priority will also be given to improve the processing, marketing and transport facilities, with emphasis on modernization of abattoirs, carcass utilization and value addition thereon. Since animal disease eradication and quarantine is critical to exports, animal health system will be strengthened and disease-free zones created. The involvement of cooperatives and private sector will be encouraged for development of animal husbandry, poultry and dairy. Incentives for livestock and fisheries production activities will be brought at par with incentives for crop production. An integrated approach to marine and inland fisheries, designed to promote sustainable aquaculture practices, will be adopted. Biotechnological application in the field of genetics and breeding, harmonal applications, immunology and disease control will receive particular attention for increased aquaculture production. Development of sustainable technologies for fin and shell fish culture as also pearl-culture, their yield optimization, harvest and post-harvest operations, mechanization of fishing boats, strengthening of infrastructure for production of fish seed, berthing and landing facilities for fishing vessels and development of marketing infrastructure will be accorded high priority. Deep sea fishing industry will be developed to take advantage of the vast potential of countrys exclusive economic zone. Generation and Transfer of Technology A very high priority will be accorded to evolving new location-specific and economically viable improved varieties of agricultural and horticultural crops, livestock species and aquaculture as also conservation and judicious use of germplasm and other bio-diversity resources. The regionalization of agricultural research, based on identified agro-climatic zones, will be accorded high priority. Application of frontier sciences like bio-technology, remote sensing technologies, pre and post-harvest technologies, energy saving technologies, technology for environmental protection through national research system as well as proprietary research will be encouraged. The endeavour will be to build a well organized, efficient and result-oriented agriculture research and education system to introduce technological change in Indian agriculture. Upgradation of agricultural education and its orientation towards uniformity in education standards, women empowerment, user-orientation, vocationalizati on and promotion of excellence will be the hallmark of the new policy.. The research and extension linkages will be strengthened to improve quality and effectiveness of research and extension system. The extension system will be broad-based and revitalized. Innovative and decentralized institutional changes will be introduced to make the extension system farmer-responsible and farmer-accountable. Role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Farmers Organizations, Cooperatives, corporate sector and para-technicians in agricultural extension will be encouraged for organizing demand-driven production systems. Development of human resources through capacity building and skill upgradation of public extension functionaries and other extension functionaries will be accorded a high priority. The Government will endeavour to move towards a regime of financial sustainability of extension services through effecting in a phased manner, a more realistic cost recovery of extension services and inputs, while simultaneously safeguarding t he interests of the poor and the vulnerable groups. Mainstreaming gender concerns in agriculture will receive particular attention. Appropriate structural, functional and institutional measures will be initiated to empower women and build their capabilities and improve their access to inputs, technology and other farming resources. Inputs Management Adequate and timely supply of quality inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, plant protection chemicals, bio-pesticides, agricultural machinery and credit at reasonable rates to farmers will be the endeavour of the Government. Soil testing and quality testing of fertilisers and seeds will be ensured and supply of spurious inputs will be checked. Balanced and optimum use of fertilizers will be promoted together with use of organic manures and bio-fertilizers to optimize the efficiency of nutrient use. Development, production and distribution of improved varieties of seeds and planting materials and strengthening and expansion of seed and plant certification system with private sector participation will receive a high priority. A National Seed Grid will be established to ensure supply of seeds especially to areas affected by natural calamities. The National Seeds Corporation (NSC) and State Farms Corporation of India (SFCI) will be restructured for efficient utilization of investment and manpower. Protection to plant varieties through a sui generis legislation, will be granted to encourage research and breeding of new varieties particularly in the private sector in line with Indias obligations under TRIPS Agreement. The farmers will, however, be allowed their traditional rights to save, use, exchange, share and sell their farm saved seeds except as branded seeds of protected varieties for commercial purpose. The interests of the researchers will also be safeguarded in carrying out research on proprietary varieties to develop new varieties. Integrated pest management and use of biotic agents in order to minimize the indiscriminate and injudicious use of chemical pesticides will be the cardinal principle covering plant protection. Selective and eco-friendly farm mechanization through appropriate technology will be promoted, with special reference to rainfed farming to reduce arduous work and to make agriculture efficient and competitive as also to increase crop productivity. Incentives for Agriculture The Government will endeavour to create a favourable economic environment for increasing capital formation and farmers own investments by removal of distortions in the incentive regime for agriculture, improving the terms of trade with manufacturing sectors and bringing about external and domestic market reforms backed by rationalization of domestic tax structure. It will seek to bestow on the agriculture sector in as many respects as possible benefits similar to those obtaining in the manufacturing sector, such as easy availability of credit and other inputs, and infrastructure facilities for development of agri-business industries and development of effective delivery systems and freed movement of agro produce. Consequent upon dismantling of Quantitative Restrictions on imports as per WTO Agreement on Agriculture, commodity-wise strategies and arrangements for protecting the grower from adverse impact of undue price fluctuations in world markets and for promoting exports will be formulated. Apart from price competition, other aspects of marketing such as quality, choice, health and bio-safety will be promoted. Exports of horticultural produce and marine products will receive particular emphasis. A two-fold long term strategy of diversification of agricultural produce and value addition enabling the production system to respond to external environment and creating export demand for the commodities produced in the country will be evolved with a view to providing the farmers incremental income from export earnings. A favourable economic environment and supportive public management system will be created for promotion of agricultural exports. Quarantine, both of exports and imports, will be giv en particular attention so that Indian agriculture is protected from the ingress of exotic pests and diseases. In order to protect the interest of farmers in context of removal of Quantitative Restrictions, continuous monitoring of international prices will be undertaken and appropriate tariffs protection will be provided. Import duties on manufactured commodities used in agriculture will be rationalized. The domestic agricultural market will be liberalized and all controls and regulations hindering increase in farmers income will be reviewed and abolished to ensure that agriculturists receive prices commensurate with their efforts, investment. Restrictions on the movement of agricultural commodities throughout the country will be progressively dismantled. The structure of taxes on foodgrains and other commercial crops will be reviewed and rationalized. Similarly, the excise duty on materials such as farm machinery and implements, fertilizers, etc., used as inputs in agricultural production, post harvest storage and processing will be reviewed. Appropriate measures will be adopted to ensure that agriculturists by and large remain outside the regulatory and tax collection systems. Farmers will be exempted from payment of capital gains tax on compulsory acquisition of agricultural land. Investments in Agriculture The agriculture sector has been starved of capital. There has been a decline in the public sector investment in the agriculture sector. Public investment for narrowing regional imbalances, accelerating development of supportive infrastructure for agriculture and rural development particularly rural connectivity will be stepped up. A time-bound strategy for rationalisation and transparent pricing of inputs will be formulated to encourage judicious input use and to generate resources for agriculture. Input subsidy reforms will be pursued as a combination of price and institutional reforms to cut down costs of these inputs for agriculture. Resource allocation regime will be reviewed with a view to rechannelizing the available resources from support measures towards assets formation in rural sector. A conducive climate will be created through a favourable price and trade regime to promote farmers own investments as also investments by industries producing inputs for agriculture and agro-based industries. Private sector investments in agriculture will also be encouraged more particularly in areas like agricultural research, human resource development, post-harvest management and marketing. Rural electrification will be given a high priority as the prime mover for agricultural development. The quality and availability of electricity supply will be improved and the demand of the agriculture sector will be met adequately in a reliable and cost effective manner. The use of new and renewable sources of energy for irrigation and other agricultural purposes will also be encouraged. Bridging the gap between irrigation potential created and utilized, completion of all on-going projects, restoration and modernization of irrigation infrastructure including drainage, evolving and implementing an integrated plan of augmentation and management of national water resources will receive special attention for augmenting the availability and use of irrigation water. Emphasis will be laid on development of marketing infrastructure and techniques of preservation, storage and transportation with a view to reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring a better return to the grower. The weekly periodic markets under the direct control of Panchayat Raj institutions will be upgraded and strengthened. Direct marketing and pledge financing will be promoted. Producers markets on the lines of Ryatu Bazars will be encouraged throughout the width and breadth of the country. Storage facilities for different kinds of agricultural products will be created in the production areas or nearby places particularly in the rural areas so that the farmers can transport their produce to these places immediately after harvest in shortest possible time. The establishment of cold chains, provision of pre-cooling facilities to farmers as a service and cold storage in the terminal markets and improving the retail marketing arrangements in urban areas, will be given priority. Upgr adation and dissemination of market intelligence will receive particular attention. Setting up of agro-processing units in the producing areas to reduce wastage, especially of horticultural produce, increased value addition and creation of off-farm employment in rural areas will be encouraged. Collaboration between the producer cooperatives and the corporate sector will be encouraged to promote agro-processing industry. An interactive coupling between technology, economy, environment and society will be promoted for speedy development of food and agro-processing industries and building up a substantial base for production of value added agro-products for domestic and export markets with a strong emphasis on food safety and quality. The Small Farmers Agro Business Consortium (SFAC) will be energized to cater to the needs of farmer entrepreneurs and promote public and private investments in agri-business. Institutional Structure Indian agriculture is characterized by pre-dominance of small and marginal farmers. Institutional reforms will be so pursued as to channelize their energies for achieving greater productivity and production. The approach to rural development and land reforms will focus on the following areas: Consolidation of holdings all over the country on the pattern of north-western States; Redistribution of ceiling surplus lands and waste lands among the landless farmers, unemployed youth with initial start-up capital; Tenancy reforms to recognize the rights of the tenants and share croppers; Development of lease markets for increasing the size of holdings by making legal provisions for giving private lands on lease for cultivation and agri-business; Updating and improvement of land records, computerization and issue of land pass-books to the farmers, and Recognition of womens rights in land. The rural poor will be increasingly involved in the implementation of land reforms with the help of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Voluntary Groups, Social Activists and Community Leaders. Private sector participation will be promoted through contract farming and land leasing arrangements to allow accelerated technology transfer, capital inflow and assured markets for crop production, especially of oilseeds, cotton and horticultural crops. Progressive institutionalization of rural and farm credit will be continued for providing timely and adequate credit to farmers. The rural credit institutions will be geared to promote savings, investments and risk management. Particular attention will be paid to removal of distortions in the priority sector lending by commercial banks for agriculture and rural sectors. Special measures will be taken for revamping of cooperatives to remove institutional and financial weaknesses and evolving simplified procedure for sanction and disbursement of agriculture credit. The endeavour will be to ensure distribution equity in the disbursement of credit. Micro-credit will be promoted as an effective tool for alleviating poverty. Self Help Group Bank linkage system, suited to Indian rural sector, will be developed as a supplementary mechanism for bringing the rural poor